Michael Henning, a cherished figure in the Berkeley and greater East Bay area, has passed away, leaving a void that resonates deeply throughout the community he touched. A popular radio host at KALX, UC Berkeley’s renowned campus station, Henning was more than just a voice on the airwaves—he was a cultural ambassador, an advocate for lesser-known musical talent, and a beloved friend to listeners. His sudden death has shocked those who tuned in regularly to hear his signature style, leaving his fans, friends, and family in mourning.
Michael was well-known for his eclectic radio shows, which introduced many to music genres that spanned the globe. His deep appreciation for sounds from different cultures and his seamless blending of emerging artists with musical legends turned his program into a space of exploration, education, and joy. For nearly two decades, he was a constant, reassuring voice in the East Bay airwaves, becoming an integral part of the lives of many who tuned in to KALX.
The news of Michael’s death came unexpectedly. It was confirmed by the KALX team earlier this week, shocking his devoted listeners and colleagues. The outpouring of grief from the community has been palpable, with many sharing their memories of the late host on social media and calling into the station to express their condolences. His passing has left a profound mark on Berkeley, a place where he was not just a DJ, but a mentor and friend to many. A memorial event celebrating his life is being planned for January 2025, allowing the community to gather and remember a man whose passion for radio and music was unparalleled.
The Man Behind the Mic: A Lifelong Passion for Music and Radio
Born in 1970 in Berkeley, Michael Henning grew up immersed in the music scene of the Bay Area. The vibrant, eclectic musical environment that Berkeley is known for had a profound influence on him from an early age. By the time he was a teenager, he had already developed a strong love for various genres of music, from rock and jazz to reggae, folk, and experimental sounds. His teenage years were spent at record stores and music venues, building his knowledge and expanding his collection, all while dreaming of a career that would allow him to share his passion with others.
Henning’s journey into radio began when he was a student at UC Berkeley. He started as a volunteer at KALX in the early 1990s, a time when the station was developing its reputation as one of the most influential college radio stations in the country. His enthusiasm and love for discovering new artists quickly caught the attention of station management, who offered him his first time slot. What began as a modest late-night show soon evolved into one of the most popular programs on the station.
As a radio host, Michael was revered for his ability to seamlessly switch between different genres and moods, curating shows that felt like a musical journey. Listeners might hear obscure underground bands from Japan, followed by an indie rock anthem from the 1990s, and then a jazz piece from the 1950s. His shows were unpredictable in the best way possible, constantly introducing new music to his audience while maintaining a steady flow of nostalgia for those who appreciated timeless tracks.
More than just a DJ, Michael had a deep knowledge of music history and culture. He often took time during his show to share stories about the artists he played, giving his audience insights that went far beyond what they could find on their own. His commentary was always thoughtful, humorous, and engaging, making his show as informative as it was entertaining. His dedication to the craft of radio and music broadcasting was evident to anyone who listened.
Impact on KALX and the Community
Michael’s contribution to KALX and the broader Berkeley community cannot be overstated. He was a mentor to young DJs and aspiring radio hosts, offering guidance and encouragement to those just starting in the industry. He believed that radio should be a platform for discovery, a place where listeners could encounter new ideas and sounds that they wouldn’t find anywhere else. This philosophy helped shape the ethos of KALX during his tenure and established the station as one of the Bay Area’s most beloved cultural institutions.
Through his work, Michael became a trusted voice in the East Bay music scene. He was known for supporting local musicians, regularly featuring bands from the area on his show and helping to promote their work. For many up-and-coming artists, getting airplay on Henning’s show was a rite of passage, a sign that they had arrived and were being recognized by one of the most discerning music aficionados in the region.
Henning’s influence extended beyond the radio station as well. He was an active participant in local cultural events, regularly attending and emceeing concerts, festivals, and fundraisers. He often hosted live broadcasts from music events, bringing the excitement of Berkeley’s vibrant music scene to listeners who couldn’t attend in person. His enthusiasm for local culture made him a beloved figure not only in the radio community but also in the broader Bay Area arts scene.
Despite his prominence, Michael was known for his humility and generosity. He was always approachable, whether it was to offer music recommendations or to have a chat about life in general. His genuine love for people and his community was evident in every interaction, and he had an uncanny ability to make those around him feel appreciated and seen.
A Celebration of Life
To honor Michael’s legacy, a celebration of life is being planned for January 2025 in Berkeley. The event will bring together friends, family, colleagues, and fans to remember a man whose life and work touched so many. While the details are still being finalized, it is expected that the gathering will feature live music from some of the local artists that Michael championed during his career. The event will be a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to celebrating music and community.
For those who cannot attend the memorial in person, KALX is planning a special tribute broadcast to coincide with the event. This broadcast will feature highlights from some of Michael’s most memorable shows, as well as interviews with colleagues, friends, and musicians who knew and loved him. It will be a chance for listeners to come together, even from afar, to celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to the world of radio.
The Legacy Michael Leaves Behind
Michael Henning’s death has left an indelible mark on the Berkeley community and the many lives he touched through his work at KALX. His legacy is one of passion, creativity, and connection. He believed in the power of radio to bring people together, to educate and entertain, and to foster a sense of community. In his nearly 20 years on the air, he accomplished all of these things and more.
As the community reflects on his passing, many are taking solace in the memories of the joy he brought into their lives. His voice, his laugh, and his unmistakable passion for music will continue to echo through the halls of KALX and in the hearts of his listeners. Although he is gone, his influence will continue to inspire future generations of radio hosts and music lovers.
In the words of one KALX colleague, “Michael wasn’t just a DJ—he was the heart and soul of this station. We will miss him dearly, but we will carry on his legacy by continuing to champion the music and the people he loved.”
A Lasting Impact
The death of Michael Henning is a profound loss for the Berkeley community, but his influence will not be forgotten. As the celebration of his life draws near, those who knew him are taking the time to reflect on the incredible impact he had. He was more than a radio host—he was a friend, a mentor, a guide, and an irreplaceable part of the cultural fabric of the East Bay.
Though the airwaves may feel a little emptier without Michael’s voice, his legacy lives on in the music he championed, the friendships he forged, and the community he helped build. For those who tuned in week after week, Michael Henning will forever remain an integral part of their lives. His passion for radio will continue to inspire, his love of music will never be forgotten, and the warmth he brought to every broadcast will forever resonate in the hearts of those who listened.
